During the winter, driving even the shortest distances can be a struggle. And as much as we dream of cruising with the windows down again, for many of us, freezing temps are currently here to stay.
With more than 660 travel centers across the nation, we’re here to help you (and your car) cope with the cold. Keep reading for five simple #TripTips that take the hassle out of winter travel.
Trip Tip #1: Get a Grip On Tire Pressure
Did you know that tire pressure drops with the temperatures? Steering your vehicle through icy conditions is never fun, but properly inflated tires will definitely help. Adjust your tire pressure as needed with the use of your vehicle owner’s manual, a tire gauge and one of our travel center air pumps.
Trip Tip #2: Stay Frost Free
Annoying as it may seem, defrosting your windshield, windows and mirrors is an absolute must. Avoid chipping away at ice until your hands go numb and opt for a quicker solution: windshield de-icer spray. De-icer sprays can melt stubborn frost in seconds, getting you back on the road in no time. Pick up some de-icer spray at a Pilot Flying J travel center near you.
Trip Tip #3: Wipe Away Your Worries
Even if you’ve managed to defrost your windshield, you’re not in the clear just yet. Thanks to road salt, melting snow and mud, winter can dirty your windshield pretty quick. Make sure your car is filled with windshield fluid that can help with the clean up and won’t freeze. Also, try taking care of those wipers by switching them off before you cut the ignition. When you turn your car back on in the morning, this will prevent the wipers from fighting the ice, which could damage the wiper motors.
Tip #4: Keep Your Tank Optimistically Half-Full
Adding a little extra gas to your tank can go a long way. By keeping your tank at least half full or fuller, you can prevent moisture from getting in your fuel system and freezing your fuel lines. If that happens, you won’t be going anywhere.
Tip #5: Stock Up For Safety
Sometimes winter weather can take an unexpected turn. Before you find yourself broken down and stranded, build a small roadside emergency kit to stash in your trunk. At the very least, you’ll want the following supplies: a windshield scraper or de-icer, a warm blanket and gloves, a flashlight, a cell phone adaptor, jumper cables, first aid supplies, snacks and water.
That just about does it. Swing by the next time the cold starts slowing you down and we’ll help you warm up, stock up and get going again.
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